Housing Starts at Four-Year High in October

November 20, 2012 by Jon C. Ogg

Today brought another report from the housing sector and the news is good. Housing Starts rose by 3.6% to 894,000 in October, and September was revised slightly higher to 15.1% from 15.0%. Bloomberg was calling for 836,000 starts for October and the range was 780,000 to 873,000. Dow Jones was calling for 833,000.

Today’s report from the Commerce Department is yet another reading that confirms that the housing market recovery remains underway. This was the highest reading since July of 2008.

It is important to show that single-family housing fell 0.2% to 594,000 units, but that was still up over 35% from a year ago.

A housing start is registered at the start of construction of a new building that is intended to be a residential building, and it is defined as the beginning of excavation of the foundation for the building. The hurricane had very small impact because it only affected a small region at the very end of the month. These figures are seasonally adjusted.

JON C. OGG

Essential Tips for Investing: Sponsored

A financial advisor can help you understand the advantages and disadvantages of investment properties. Finding a qualified financial advisor doesn’t have to be hard. SmartAsset’s free tool matches you with up to three financial advisors who serve your area, and you can interview your advisor matches at no cost to decide which one is right for you. If you’re ready to find an advisor who can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now.

Investing in real estate can diversify your portfolio. But expanding your horizons may add additional costs. If you’re an investor looking to minimize expenses, consider checking out online brokerages. They often offer low investment fees, helping you maximize your profit.